Breaking Free: A Guide to Understanding Constipation Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Battling constipation can feel like an endless struggle with your own body, leaving you frustrated and desperate for relief. This widespread, yet often misunderstood digestive issue has a relentless grip that goes beyond occasional discomfort, affecting overall well-being and quality of life. However, these troubles can be treated. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of the causes, symptoms, and possible constipation treatments, you can regain control over your digestive health and find the relief you seek.

What is constipation?

Constipation is characterised by infrequent bowel movements and difficulty in passing stools. It occurs when excessive water is absorbed from the stools, resulting in their dry and hardened consistency. This hardening makes the stools difficult to pass, leading to irregular and uncomfortable bowel movements. Interestingly, everyone has a unique schedule for when they pass stools, and these schedules can differ significantly from person to person. However, when an individual experiences a significant change in their usual bowel movement patterns, such as a decrease in frequency or increased difficulty, it may indicate constipation.

What are the symptoms of constipation?

Constipation symptoms can vary depending on the individual, but some common signs of constipation include:

1) Fewer than three bowel movements per week 

2) Hard, dry, or lumpy stool

3) Difficulty or pain while passing stool

4) Bloating and discomfort

5) Loss of appetite

What are the causes of constipation?

There are several factors that may contribute to the development of constipation and understanding these causes can help effectively address the issue.

1) Inadequate fibre in the diet

2) Insufficient intake of fluids

3) Lack of physical activity

4) Specific medical conditions

5) Certain types of medications

6) Ignoring the natural urge to pass stools

7) Hormonal changes during pregnancy

To effectively treat constipation, it becomes imperative to address these causes. By making necessary lifestyle changes, seeking medical advice when required and incorporating appropriate constipation treatments, you can prevent constipation and improve your digestive health.

How can constipation be treated?

Treatment for constipation can begin by making certain lifestyle changes, taking medication or a combination of both. Here are a few ways to keep your gut healthy and prevent constipation:

1) Increasing your fibre intake

Incorporating fibre-rich foods into your diet can help soften your stools. However, it's important to strike a balance because high fibre intake can also lead to constipation.

2) Staying hydrated

Drinking more fluids throughout the day can help prevent dry and hard stools.

3) Exercising regularly

Engaging in physical activity can stimulate your digestive system and help alleviate constipation.

4) Not ignoring the urge to go

Listen to your body and make time for bowel movements when the urge arises.

5) Taking laxatives or suppositories

If you feel the need for relief from constipation overnight, you can consume laxatives or use suppositories. They can help provide temporary relief from constipation and regulate bowel movements.

When should you call your doctor?

Constipation symptoms might not always be severe and can oftentimes be managed at home, but certain situations warrant medical attention. If you experience persistent or severe constipation that does not improve with changes in lifestyle or over-the-counter treatments, it is important to consult your doctor. By seeking medical advice, you can promptly rule out any underlying conditions or complications and be relieved of your symptoms.

Begin to reclaim your freedom

If you find yourself dealing with certain constipation symptoms, take comfort in knowing that you can break free from its relentless grip. By understanding the underlying causes, recognising the symptoms, and exploring suitable constipation treatments, you can treat constipation and reclaim your digestive well-being.